Friday, April 30, 2010

Cancer is the number-one disease-related cause of death among dogs and cats. For the month of May, PETCO and Blue Buffalo are partnering to raise awareness and funds to fight this devastating disease. The goal this year is to raise $1,000,000 with 100 percent of the donations going to the Morris Animal Foundation to fund research and finding a cure.

Throughout Pet Cancer Awareness (PCA) month, pet parents can make donations to the cause by rounding up their in-store PETCO purchases to the next dollar at the register, or by making a donation in an amount of their choice. Additionally, Blue Buffalo will donate up to $1 for every bag of BLUE dog or cat food purchased during May.

Additionally, Saturday, May 8 is designated as Pet Cancer Awareness Day at PETCO stores throughout the nation. From 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., local veterinarians will be available to talk with pet parents about what they can do to help prevent cancer in their own pets. In addition, veterinarians will provide warning signs of pet cancer including body sores, loss of weight/appetite, and loss of stamina.

"PETCO believes in prevention and early detection of pet cancer and that's why we partnered with The Blue Buffalo Pet Food Company for Pet Cancer Awareness Month," said Dr. Thomas Edling, PETCO's pet expert/veterinarian. "Taking a month to focus on this cause will help pet owners learn the warning signs of pet cancer and make them aware of the resources available to help."

PCA month will also be celebrated with the launch of PETCO's Virtual Wall for fighters and survivors of pet cancer. The wall will be hosted on PETCO.com and will give pet owners the opportunity to celebrate the bond between human and pet and provide hope to those currently going through cancer with their pet.

For the past six years, The Blue Buffalo Foundation for Cancer Research (B.B.F.C.R.) has sponsored a Pet Cancer Awareness Month to help educate pet parents about the disease as well as raise money to find a cure. The money is used to the support the research efforts of universities and clinics in the U.S. whose mission is to find a cure for the leading disease-related cause of death among dogs and cats.

The Blue Buffalo Foundation for Cancer Research is also sponsoring a Pet Cancer Awareness tour in May in memory of Gibson, the World's Tallest Dog, who lost his battle with osteosarcoma last year. The tour will stop at PETCO stores across the country to provide pet parents with important information about pet cancer, and will enhance the educational and fundraising activities that the foundation will carry out during PCA Month.

The tour will feature pet cancer awareness advocate Sandy Hall, and her dog Brewster, who she has dubbed the "World's Tallest Puppy". Hall was the proud parent of Gibson, the World's Tallest Dog, who lost his battle with osteosarcoma last year. "Losing Gibson to cancer was the hardest thing I have ever experienced," said Hall. "I could not believe the outpouring of letters, phone calls, and emails I received from others who have suffered along with their pets from this terrible disease." Hall has vowed to share her experiences with Gibson to raise awareness of pet cancer and help generate funds for research to find a cure. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Hall and Brewster at each tour stop, obtain pet cancer literature, and view in-store demonstrations pertaining to the disease.

About The Blue Buffalo Foundation for Cancer Research

The Blue Buffalo Foundation for Cancer Research was established in 2003 by The Blue Buffalo Company, a manufacturer of healthy and holistic dog and cat foods under the BLUE™ and BLUE Spa Select™ brand names. The Blue Buffalo Company has now raised more than $300,000 with 100% of the funds going to the cause. Finding a cure for pet cancer is one of the top priorities for The Blue Buffalo Company because its founders have had some personal experience with this disease. "Our dog Blue, a large breed Airedale and a great pal, had three bouts with cancer," said Bill Bishop, Blue Buffalo's CEO. "After Blue was diagnosed, we wanted to find out all we could about pet cancer, and were amazed to learn that it is the leading disease-related cause of death for both dogs and cats. So one of the first things we did after starting our pet food company was to establish a foundation to raise money for pet cancer research, and raise awareness among pet parents of the early warning signs of this disease." You can learn more about The Blue Buffalo Foundation for Cancer Research and their Pet Cancer Awareness program by visiting www.petcancerawareness.com.

About PETCO

PETCO is a privately held specialty retailer that provides products, services and advice that make it easier for our customers to be great pet parents. We operate more than 1,000 stores in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading pet products and information destination at www.petco.com. Our nonprofit organization, The PETCO Foundation, has raised more than $60 million since its inception in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. In conjunction with the Foundation, we work with and support about 6,200 local animal welfare groups across the country to help find homes for more than 200,000 adoptable animals every year.

About Morris Animal Foundation

Morris Animal Foundation, established in 1948, is dedicated to funding humane animal health research that protects, treats and cures companion animals, horses and wildlife. MAF has been at the forefront of funding breakthrough research studies benefiting animals on all seven continents. MAF has its headquarters in Denver. Charity Navigator ranks MAF as a four-star charity, the highest rating. MAF is a BBB Wise Giving Alliance Charity Seal Holder. For more information, call 800.243.2345 or visit MorrisAnimalFoundation.org.

First off a Big Thanks goes out to Milk-bone & Meijer for their generous donation to help Shannon Wiltse receive a service dog that will help assist her though live. We all know that service dogs cost a lot of money and most people are unable to afford to buy a service dog in the first place. That’s what happened to Shannon on her five year quest to have a dog of her own to help here with her disability.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

DogTime Media, the largest vertical media community focused exclusively on pet owners, today announced that its audience has grown to an industry leading 29,475,000 unique visitors a month, as reported by comScore Media Metrix(1).

ComScore recently establish a "Pets" category within its Community section of web sites to accurately reflect the ranking of online properties in the pet space. DogTime Media has led the category since its inception.

"We're delivering a combination of data-driven audience and performance targeting, content syndication, and uniquely powerful cause-driven social media programs across the largest audience in the pets category," said Simon Tonner, VP Sales and Marketing for DogTime Media. "This combination has delivered outstanding ROI in both reach and engagement for a record number of advertisers this past quarter."

DogTime Media served over 1 billion targeted ad impressions in 2009 and more than 2 million video plays a month. DogTime Media provides a suite of targeting and engagement programs, including contextual, behavioral, demographic, geographic, retargeting, social media and cause related programs that reach and engage an audience of affluent and educated women aged 25-54.

DogTime Media's popular Facebook applications, Save a Dog and Save a Cat, are ranked #1 and #2 cause-based apps for user engagement (DAU/MAU) within the Friends and Family category(2), and are now accessible via the iPad.

The March comScore report also showed DogTime.com, the hub site of DogTime Media, as reaching 423,000 unique visitors per month(1), making it one of the fastest growing pet focused sites in the Pets category.

DogTime Media is the largest vertical media community focused exclusively on pet owners and the 45.4 billion dollar annual pet market. DogTime Media reaches 29.5 million monthly users via its community of 500 leading pet-focused websites, 460 pet bloggers and more than 2,500 rescue groups, anchored by its own DogTime.com, the premier destination for dog owners.

DogTime Media actively supports the efforts of rescue groups and shelters nationwide to significantly reduce the number of homeless and neglected pets in the country by providing authoritative advice to both novice and experienced pet guardians. DogTime Media has donated over $60,000 to pet related caused via it's Save a Dog and Save a Cat Facebook applications, monthly grants and a variety of other programs. Privately held DogTime Media and DogTime.com are based in San Francisco, Calif.

Monday, April 26, 2010

A thief broke into Catherine Bergholz home in Baltimore, Maryland and stole her little puppy called Grazioso Sigh-gu. The thief's name is Ronald Anthony Johnson who has been charged with breaking in to Catherine’s house but the police were unable to find the dog.

Catherine Bergholz said: I'm concerned he may have sold him. I'm concerned they may be using the puppy as bait. I'm terrified for the dog's life.

If you have seen this dog Please call Catherine @ 410-355-0654 or the local police @ 410-396-2504. We all know that our dogs are our babies so if you know anything Please help.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

With a long history of working with special needs children, Golden Meadows Kennel is donating one of their specially trained Golden Retriever puppies in the next 30 days to raise awareness about Autism.

April is Autism Awareness Month and champion Golden Retriever breeder, Golden Meadows Kennel, will be donating one of their specially trained Golden Retriever puppies Golden Retriever puppies in the next 30 days in an effort to raise awareness about the disease and to lighten the load for those that suffer.

With a long history of working with special needs children, Golden Meadows Kennel is honored to be an advocate once again. Because their extraordinary puppies are trained from birth to be well-adjusted and nurturing with sweet temperaments, their Golden Retrievers are the ideal companion for a household with special needs.

“We have been fortunate enough to be able to work with several families whose children have been affected by Autism. We have placed several trained Golden Retrievers with these families to help their children cope with the day to day stresses and fears that accompany Autism.”

In the recent past, Golden Meadows Kennel donated a puppy to an autistic boy named Brad and his personal letter on their website is a beaming testament to the success of this outreach program. Since receiving the Golden Retriever puppy, Brad has made great strides in his social interaction and his general well-being – his words are proof that these unique puppies are a powerful tool in supplementing the disability.

By placing another specially trained puppy in another special home, Golden Meadows Kennel hopes to repeat this success story and aid autistic awareness as a result.

Golden Meadows Kennel LLC has been breeding top quality Golden Retriever and Vizsla puppies for over 17 years. All of their dogs come from excellent pedigrees with champion lines, sweet temperaments and great looks. Located in Southern California, in Central Ventura County, Golden Meadows Kennel LLC is a boutique Golden Retriever and Vizsla breeder and trainer that has produced some of Hollywood’s finest canine personalities. Through a caring and comprehensive training program, each of their dogs is raised to be a well-adjusted companion.

Things didn’t go so well for a guy who purchased a pit bull off of Craigslist when the dog attacked his two children age seven and twelve in N. H.. Luckily one of the kids needed stitches in the face from being bit and it wasn’t worse.

I don’t know about you, but to buy an older dog not knowing anything about them and having kids just don’t mix. You just don’t know how the dog was trained or even if it ever was. Looking at all the comments on the article page you think that it’s just pit bulls but it’s not, any dog could attack your child if it was treated badly and the jealousy factor comes into play too.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Can you imagine your dog being stuck in a rabbit hole for ten weeks and survive for that long of a time. Well a little Jack Russell did just that in the UK and lucky for the owner Heather Harrison her dog Sophie is alive and well.

Heather Harrison said: After ten weeks of being missing, we never thought we'd see Sophie again. It was such a shock to find out what happened to her. The skeletal little dog that was rescued from the hole couldn't have lasted much longer without food and water – I think of her as a little miracle. We're over the moon to have her home.

Just amazing that the dog was able to survive being down in the rabbit hole for so long.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

PAWS Chicago to Receive Profits from Evensong, a Novel by M.L. St. Sure

The mission of PAWS Chicago is to build a No Kill Chicago - a city where pets are no longer destroyed because they are homeless. Author, M.L. St. Sure has chosen to donate 100% of her profits for the month of May 2010 to help create awareness and raise money for homeless animals. All PAWS Chicago proceeds go directly to the animals.

Evensong is at best a well-written historical novel—with threads of a romance story woven within—and at its very best, it is an honest depiction of the way in which the ugly realities and destruction of war often destroy reason and logic, leaving a deceptively well-reasoned madness to prevail in the void.

The story begins in a poverty ravaged farming town in Missouri, during the time of World War II. Where Christina Cross waits for the dust of hopelessness to swallow her family's shanty house, as she fills her mind with her early childhood memories of her father's elite opera career, her mother's French couture wardrobe, and the Persian carpets, silk draperies, flowers, and green lawns of the beautiful Austrian village that were all lost to The Great War.

Christina longs to understand "her father's determination to till the unmanageable." She longs for him to share with her his thoughts and feelings about his childhood, his grand opera career, and the war that tore him from the grand life her family had shared in Austria. Then, she longs to be able to turn the tide of unfortunate events that tragically led to her father's accidental death and the destruction and demise of her family that followed. Until, the depth of her longings to save her family, and herself, take her back to the very epicenter of the war—that began the destruction of her life—where she joins Operation Cri de Coeur, rescuing babies from Hitler's camps. However, like her father, she too has become a celebrated opera singer and soon finds herself in mortal danger—being forced to sing the singspiel before Hitler.

Historical fiction fans will be drawn to M.L. St. Sure's rich narrative, which maintains a page-turning pace that is not hampered by an infusion of information that can often overwhelm the plot and characters of historical novels. That said, the plausible characterizations and vivid descriptions of the novel's various settings—both beautiful, and scarred by the brutality of war—add to the story's physical reality and portrayal of tragic historical events. - The US Review by J. Alpha

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

After reading about so many puppy mills over the years you would think that people would stop doing it. Well this woman named Gayla Jackson from Sparta, Tenn. had some two hundred dogs running around in her home by the White County Sheriff’s this week.

I just love what Gayla Jackson said of her excuse as quoted by Sheriff Oddie Shoupe: She said she needed the help and didn't know where to turn, and that this was a blessing in disguise. She started grooming dogs, then it blossomed into a breeding operation, and it was too much for her to take care of.

Don’t you just love the BS that these heartless puppy mill breeders always have to say the same thing when they get caught. They don’t have any regards for the animals but how much money are they going to make. There should be a national law not just some town code of enforcement.

Monday, April 19, 2010

This year’s winner for two years in a row is Angela Kumpe and her loving poodle Missy with a special work of art called “grieving angle for my mom”.

With second place going to another poodle called Francesca

and third place going to the funny dog named Tucker.

What a show that was held in the Meadowlands Exposition Center in New Jersey this past weekend that was held by Intergroom. It sure must have been a fun day to see all the works of art that their owners did on their dogs for the competition.

According to an American Pet Products Association (APPA) survey, 62 percent of U.S. households have a pet and more than half of all owners identify their pets as a member of their family. The survey also found that in 2009 Americans spent $45 billion on their pets – nearly half of that was for vet care, supplies and over–the-counter medicines. But was this money well spent? And how much do people really know about their pet's health?

JustAnswer is a website connecting people to thousands of verified Experts in over 100 categories including Pet & Veterinary. These Experts provide answers to pet owners' most important questions, helping them become savvier about their pet's health. According to the Experts on JustAnswer, there are a handful of common household items that can be extremely dangerous for animals and can cause costly situations for owners. To help pet-proof a home and avoid spending a fortune on unnecessary vet bills, here are a few life-saving tips from an Expert on JustAnswer that could help keep your pet safe and healthy:

Q: What fruits and vegetables can be toxic for my pet?

A: Onions and garlic contain the toxic ingredient thiosulphate and are harmful to both cats and dogs. In general, onions are more of a danger and poisoning occurs a few days after the pet has ingested it. Pets affected by onion toxicity will develop haemolytic anemia, which causes red blood cells to burst while circulating in the body. Also, watch out because as few as two to three grapes can lead to kidney failure in dogs. Turns out you need to be extra careful when throwing away those table scraps!

Q: Which flowers are deadly for my pet to eat?

A: While they may be pretty to look at, Lilies and Geraniums can be extremely toxic for your pet. True Lilies, such as Easter, Day and Oriental Lilies, cause kidney failure in cats. Calla Lilies are also toxic for cats and can cause intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. For both dogs and cats, Calla Lilies and Geraniums are toxic. To avoid problems, it's best to keep such flowers out of reach altogether.

Q: Are human medicines safe for animals?

A: When it comes to human medicines and dogs, aspirin is the only over-the-counter pain killer that in some situations may be safe to use. Other pain killers can be dangerous to dogs and can quickly cause gastric ulcers or liver failure. For cats, NO pain killer or fever reducer is safe and if your pet swallows a prescription, be sure to get help for your pet immediately. Adderall, for example, can be very dangerous while birth control usually doesn't cause any lethal problems.

Q: What household items are hazardous for pets to swallow?

A: String of any kind is one of the worst types of foreign objects a cat can swallow. If consumed, it can cause a linear foreign body condition in the gastrointestinal tract – the most dangerous type of GI obstruction a cat can have. Sugar free gum is also a common, yet dangerous object as it causes hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in cats and sometimes in dogs. Other common and hazardous ingestions include batteries and loose change.

Q: What items should be in a pet emergency kit?

A: It would be great if every newly adopted pet came with an owner's manual and an emergency kit, but that's not the case. Pet owners should keep an emergency kit with hydrogen peroxide, allergy medicine, antiseptic wound and skin cleanser, mild dish soap (to remove oily substances from hair), antacid, histamine-2 blockers, and tweezers. It's also useful to have handy phone numbers for a family veterinarian and emergency veterinary services including ASPCA's 24 hour poison hotline for pets.

JustAnswer is the first resource that pet owners should look to in non-emergency situations. Experts on JustAnswer are available 24/7 and can save time and money providing information about common pet related issues. This is especially helpful when questions arise in the middle of the night or on weekends when vet care can be extremely expensive.

About JustAnswer

JustAnswer® is a website where people go when they want an answer from a Doctor, Lawyer, Mechanic or one of thousands of third-party verified Experts one-on-one. Millions with questions come to the site for affordable and fast answers in more than 100 categories, ranging from Medical to Legal. Experts typically provide answers within minutes. For more information about the company, please visit the top 200-ranked JustAnswer website or view real-time questions online now.

Saturday, April 17, 2010

This year’s winner of the 77th All-Breed Dog Show held at the Harrisburg Kennel Club in Penn. was a Scottish deerhound named Foxcliffe Hickory Wind that was owned by Phyllis Sweatt, R. Scott Dove and Cecelia Dove.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

The Translational Genomics Research Institute and the Van Andel Research Institute have been working on finding a clue from a dogs DNA that could help in finding a cure for cancer.

Dr. Mark Neff said: Rare diseases in humans also show up in dogs. By studying the DNA of canines, we expect to more quickly discover the genomic causes of disease and more quickly find ways to better treat dogs and people.

Dr. Jeffrey Trent said: The Human Genome Project provided a new playbook for biomedical research and patient care. As we begin to catalog the dog genome, we have the opportunity to really understand a number of the problems that afflict the dog, but also a number of possible health solutions for people.

I only wish they would have found a cure earlier due to my wife having stage three cancer. Hopefully one day they will find a cure with the help from our buddies.

PETCO has partnered exclusively with green social networking company, Greenwala.com, and renowned pet expert and radio personality, Tracie Hotchner, to help reduce your pet's environmental impact.

From the 8 billion pounds of kitty litter heading to landfills each year to the effects of a pet's carnivorous diet, pet parents should be aware of the substantial carbon footprint left by pets. To address this important matter, PETCO has developed an exclusive partnership with Greenwala.com, the leading online resource empowering people to go "green". With the help of both Greenwala.com and Tracie Hotchner, author and host of NPR's Gracie-Award winning show, "Cat Chat" on Sirius Radio, PETCO has compiled a list of simple ways to reduce the environmental impact of pets.

"When you consider the carbon pawprint of your pet, it also makes you think about some of the ways our own actions are affecting the environment," said Hotchner. "I encourage pet parents to take this opportunity to make changes in their behaviors and purchases to help take all of us into a new era of environmental responsibility."

10 Steps to Reduce Your Pet’s Carbon Pawprint:

1) Go Bio-degradable and Sustainable to Clean up Poop -- Who wants to populate the landfill will plastic bags full of dog do-do? And are you aware that cat-litter made from clay is mined much like coal? Use bio-degradable poop bags when walking your dog and an eco-friendly cat-litter in the kitty box. Look for PETCO’s Natural line of litters made of corn, paper and pine pellets.

2) Think Adoption First -- The HSUS estimates that animal shelters care for 6-8 million dogs and cats every year in the United States, of whom approximately 3-4 million are euthanized. Find the perfect addition to your family at one of PETCO’s monthly in-store national adoption events where local shelters match pets in need with parents.

3) Spay or Neuter Your Pet -- Over 70K puppies and kittens are born every day. We are already at crisis mode in terms of homeless and abandoned animals. Thanks to the economy, this has only gotten worse. Help decrease the number of homeless animals in the United States by spaying or neutering your animals. Not only does it help control animal over-population and homelessness, but it also has been demonstrated to provide long-term health and behavioral benefits for pets.

4) Use Natural and Organic Pet Food -- Your pets should eat the same quality foods you do. Natural, organic and holistic pet foods use proteins that are raised in sustainable, humane ways and do not contain hormones. They are preserved with natural vitamins. In addition, these healthy foods create less waste for you to clean up at the dog park. Look for the labels and see that they are full of vitamins, and nutrients and free of pesticides, and any attempt to bio-engineer the product. Check out the following high-quality brands; Halo, Blue Buffalo, and Wellness -- all available at PETCO in their ‘Healthy Living Naturally’ sections.

5) Use Organic Grooming and Cleaning Products -- Make cleaning product choices that are as safe for the planet as they are for you and your pets and children. Many pet shampoos and cleaning supplies use plant-based cleansers and natural bio-cultures to remove pet stains and odors. These products are completely non-toxic for pets and people, including natural flea removers. Look for Simple Solution Natural Cleaners and Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Totally Natural Pet Shampoo both available at PETCO stores and www.PETCO.com.

6) Use Organic and Sustainable Pet Accessories (Bedding, Collars and Leashes) -- We humans spend a third of life sleeping. Well so do most dogs. We obviously want to be comfortable so look for organic cotton and sustainable bedding to help give your dog a sound sleep. While you are at it, you can also look to get collars, leashes and PET bottles made from recycled materials or sustainable fibers without herbicides or pesticide as well. Bison branded collars and leads are made from recycled plastic bottles from landfills that are melted and spun into fibers that are woven into strong material. PETCO Naturals line of cat feeding bowls have been produced from fully compostable corn and their dog and cat toys are made with safe, natural vegetable dyes and non-toxic organic materials.

7) Avoid Pet Toys with Harmful Toxins Such as Lead -- When looking for pet toys do the same thing that you would do for your kids and that's to read the label and avoid toys with lead in them. Lead in products are equally as harmful for pets as they are for humans. In fact, the best thing to do is to get creative and create toys from recycled items that you have laying around the house.

8) Be Active and Live a Healthy Lifestyle -- Get out and get active. Not only is this a great tip for humans, but it is absolutely the best thing to do for your dog. Don't have a dog, then let your cat run around outside but make sure there is a cat enclosure. In fact, if you want to get out with your dog, go to a dog park to play with other dogs because usually the vegetation around the park can handle your dog jumping around looking for the ball that you threw a little too hard. However, when in doubt always leash your dog, since accidents can happen.

9) Planet-Friendly Manufacturing -- Choosing natural and organic based products is important. However, it's just as important to support brands that incorporate sustainability into their everyday business practices such as packaging, ingredient sourcing and recycling. Most companies proudly share their eco-conscious efforts on their websites where you can easily find it.

10) Be Committed to Your Pet -- The worse thing a pet owner could do is not be committed to them once they own one. Owning a pet is a big responsibility and not just to have fun or because it is the latest trend/fad or it was in the latest pet movie. Yes pets are fun for all ages, but they need care like a child and if you are committed to your pet it will be easier for you to also implement the other tips above.

About PETCOPETCO is a privately held specialty retailer that provides products, services and advice that make it easier for our customers to be great pet parents. We operate more than 1,000 stores in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading pet products and information destination at www.petco.com. Our nonprofit organization, The PETCO Foundation, has raised more than $60 million since its inception in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. In conjunction with the Foundation, we work with and support about 6,200 local animal welfare groups across the country to help find homes for more than 200,000 adoptable animals every year.

About Greenwala Inc.A green social networking and media company, Greenwala is an online community made of people who help others live a greener lifestyle by sharing their knowledge, green experiences and actions with friends, family and the world. Greenwala members can read expert articles, post comments and blogs, enter and vote on socially conscious contests, join or start groups, find new friends and earn points that benefit socially responsible non-profits. Learn more at www.greenwala.com. Follow company activities on Twitter at Twitter (http://twitter.com/greenwala and http://twitter.com/chiefwala) or on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/greenwala).

People who handle dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The above-referenced lots of Cetyl M for Dogs were distributed in either a 120-count bottle (shipped between January 8, 2010 and April 2, 2010) or a 360-count bottle (shipped between February 11, 2010 and April 2, 2010). The affected lot numbers are as follows: #1210903 and 0128010. The lot number can be found directly above the bar code on the label. These lots were sent out in the time periods as set out above. This product is in tablet-form, is approximately the size of a dime and is light brown in coloring.

To date, Response Products has received no reports of illness associated with the use of this product. Response Products recently learned that the FDA and Basic Foods of Las Vegas, NV, the producer of one of the components of the affected product’s vegetable beef flavoring, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, had detected Salmonella in Basic Food’s facility and had issued a recall on said component. The manufacturer of the vegetable beef flavoring used in Cetyl M for Dogs, tested the hydrolyzed vegetable beef protein for Salmonella and the results were negative. However, due to the concern regarding Salmonella in Basic Foods’ facility, it decided to recall two lots (only one lot affected our product) of said vegetable beef flavoring. The finished product manufacturer of Cetyl M for Dogs had tests performed on both the raw materials used to make our product and also the finished product, and all tested negative for Salmonella, however, it has issued a voluntary recall on two lots (see lot numbers listed above) of Cetyl M for Dogs.

Response Products requires that testing for Salmonella and other harmful pathogens is completed during the manufacturing process. Even though the testing performed at each level of the process showed negative results for Salmonella, in an effort to produce the highest quality product for our customers, Response Products ceased distributing the dog product in the above-referenced lots and is issuing a voluntary recall on its Cetyl M for Dogs in the affected lot numbers. In addition to the testing listed above, Response Products sent samples from said lots, as well as from lot produced after those lots, to an independent laboratory, and all samples received a negative result for Salmonella.

Response Products continues to investigate the cause of the problem and continues to be committed to producing a high-quality, effective product for dogs.

Consumers who have purchased the listed lots of Cetyl M for Dogs are urged to contact Response Products or the place of purchase for further direction. Consumers may contact Response Products at 1-877-266-9757, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm CST.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

A grandmother named Janet Wilson from Gaston County didn’t know what happened to her two dogs Rascal and Levi. She found out that her grandson had killed the two dogs by stomping to death one of them and cutting the throat of the other one.

How cruel is that for a kid named Devin Lowrance to do that to his grandmothers dogs, let alone any dog. The police have charger Devin with two counts of felony cruelty to animals for the crime he did.

It’s sad that grandma has lost her two buddies that she loved due to this sick kid. I can only hope that this judge throws the book at this kid for what he did to the two dogs.

Dog Fancy, the world's most widely read dog magazine, announced its picks for its annual America's Best Dog Parks contest. This year's best dog park is Jackass Acres K-9 Korral, in New River, Ariz.

"In an age when keyboards and touchpads connect us, off-leash parks flourish across the country because they are great gathering places for both dogs and dog owners to come together and enjoy each other's company,'' says Dog Fancy Editor Ernie Slone. "The best parks offer opportunities for socialization and exercise, but also strive to create a special bond and a sense of community.''

This isn't the first time Jackass Acres K-9 Korral received this honor: Dog Fancy named them the best park in their 2008 competition.

"With its dedication to eco-friendly practices, and commitment to helping neighbors who face economic challenges in these tough times, Jackass Acres goes above and beyond the call to aid pets and their owners,'' says Slone.

In celebration of Dog Fancy's 40th anniversary, the magazine named the country's top 40 parks. Rounding out the top 10 dog parks are:

Each year, Dog Fancy calls for readers to submit nominations for what they believe to be America's best dog parks. To be considered, parks must have fencing, double gates and free clean-up bags. Parks are then considered based on a list of criteria including: water for dogs and their people, shade, lights, parking availability and accessibility, support organizations and special events, among others. This year, extra points were awarded to dog parks with an active community group and parks that hold educational workshops or low-cost health clinics.

For the complete story on America's Best Dog Parks, and to find out which 40 parks made the list, pick up the June issue of Dog Fancy, on newsstands April 27, 2010.

Sunday, April 11, 2010

You might call this guy nuts but David Smith will be taken his two dogs Mollie and Sandie for a three thousand mile walk. David is trying to bring awareness to pet overpopulation and service dogs on a trip that is suppose to take seven or more months.

You can follow along on David’s journey and he and his two dogs on his web site here.

Saturday, April 10, 2010

NY Giants Quarterback Eli Manning returns in 2010 with the country’s best blind golfers to host Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s 33rd Annual Golf Classic on Sunday, June 13 and Monday, June 14. Last year 260 golfers teed off, raising more than $400,000 for the organization. Guiding Eyes, an internationally accredited nonprofit guide dog school headquartered in Yorktown Heights, each year holds the Classic at Whippoorwill Club in Armonk, NY and Mount Kisco Country Club in Mount Kisco, NY – two of the region’s favorite and most challenging courses.

Yorktown Heights, NY (PRWEB) April 10, 2010 -- NY Giants Quarterback Eli Manning returns in 2010 with the country’s best blind golfers to host Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s 33rd Annual Golf Classic on Sunday, June 13 and Monday, June 14. Last year 260 golfers teed off, raising more than $400,000 for the organization. Guiding Eyes, an internationally accredited nonprofit guide dog school headquartered in Yorktown Heights, each year holds the Classic at Whippoorwill Club in Armonk, NY and Mount Kisco Country Club in Mount Kisco, NY – two of the region’s favorite and most challenging courses.

Founded by PGA legend Ken Venturi in 1977, Guiding Eyes’ Golf Classic has raised over $7 million since its inception and is the organization’s largest annual fundraiser. The event remains a perennial favorite with a unique combination of intrepid athleticism and a champion celebrity quarterback.

As part of the Classic, Guiding Eyes will present the Corcoran Cup, the “Masters” of blind golf, on Sunday, June 13. Named for the late Fred J. Corcoran, the prestigious Cup is a testament to Corcoran’s dedication to the sport. Fourteen top U.S. Blind Golfers Association (USBGA) players from around the country will compete for the coveted award. Each blind golfer plays with a coach who aids in club selection, alignment, setup, and distances. On Monday, blind golfers will challenge their sighted counterparts to experience golf as a visually impaired person by inviting them to take a shot at hitting the ball blindfolded.

Special guest Judy Corcoran, daughter of Fred Corcoran, will join the golfers on Sunday to share stories of her father’s remarkable achievements from her book, Fred Corcoran: The Man Who Sold The World on Golf. A former PGA tournament manager, Fred Corcoran is credited with taking the sport from a minor curiosity to a major business.

Eli Manning was introduced to the Guiding Eyes Golf Classic through family friend and 18-time Corcoran Cup champion Patrick W. Browne, Jr. “This is my fourth year hosting Guiding Eyes for the Blind's Golf Classic and it’s very special to me,” says Manning. “It’s important to raise money for the school so that people who need guide dogs can have them.” Pat taught Eli and his son, Patrick III, how to golf as boys.

Sponsorships are available at the Platinum, Gold, and Silver levels. Additional support opportunities include bronze foursomes, individual play, hole sponsorship, and journal advertising. Those donating $10,000 or more are invited to a special Tee-Off Party with Eli Manning at Mulino’s of Westchester in White Plains. Current sponsors for the 33rd Annual Guiding Eyes Golf Classic include:

Individual play is $700 and a foursome is $2,500. These fees include breakfast, lunch, a banquet dinner with silent auction, and a truly memorable day of golf. Spectators are welcome at the Corcoran Cup; registration is required for gallery seating. To find out more about sponsorship opportunities, or for general golf information, please contact Michelle Brier, Events and Marketing Manager, at 914.243.2208 or mbrier(at)guidingeyes(dot)org.

Guiding Eyes for the Blind is located at 611 Granite Springs Road in Yorktown Heights, NY. The organization can be reached at 914.245.4024 or by visiting www.guidingeyes.org.

About Guiding Eyes for the BlindGuiding Eyes for the Blind (www.guidingeyes.org), an internationally accredited nonprofit guide dog school, was founded in 1954 to enrich the lives of blind and visually impaired men and women by providing them with the freedom to travel safely, thereby assuring greater independence, dignity and expanded horizons of opportunity. Since that time, Guiding Eyes has become one of the foremost guide dog schools in the world, graduating more than 7,000 guide dog teams. It provides superbly bred Guiding Eyes dogs, professional training and follow-up support services to students at no cost to them and depends on contributions to fulfill its mission. The comprehensive cost of breeding, raising, preparing, training, and supporting a Guiding Eyes team is $45,000. Guiding Eyes for the Blind's Headquarters and Training Center is located in Yorktown Heights, NY and the Canine Development Center is in Patterson, NY.

Subaru of America, Inc. today announced that it will sponsor Pilots N Paws to help them in their mission to relocate animals in need to loving homes. Pilots N Paws is a charitable organization comprised of general aviation pilots working together with rescue volunteers and shelters to relocate animals. The pilots donate their time, planes and resources to fly innocent animals to safe havens.

"As more than half of our owners have a pet, it makes sense for us to support animal-friendly organizations such as Pilots N Paws," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "We are excited about this partnership which gives us the opportunity to help connect animals in need with owners looking to provide homes for these pets."

"Pilots N Paws is honored to partner with Subaru and promote our passion of helping innocent animals in need by flying them from overcrowded areas, to areas with adoptive homes waiting," said Debi Boies, co-founder, Pilots N Paws. "Subaru recognizes the important role that pets provide in our lives. Together, we will continue to give these animals a second chance at finding a loving family."

About Pilots N Paws

Pilots N Paws is a 501c3 charitable organization that is making a difference in the lives of abandoned and neglected animals. Comprised of general aviation pilots working together with rescue volunteers and shelters, pilots donate their time, planes and resources to fly innocent animals to safe havens. Thousands of animals have been given a new chance at life by moving them from overcrowded shelters to permanent homes. Visit www.pilotsnpaws.org for more information.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 600 dealers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com.

Friday, April 9, 2010

The Guilford County Sheriff's Department in North Carolina has taken about one hundred dogs from a kennel called Rush Kennel that is located in Pleasant Garden. After receiving many complaints and an investigation the Sheriff’s decided to raid the kennel and found malnourished dogs on site.

Sheriff B.J. Barnes said: It looked like a puppy mill out of control.

The owners son tried to stick up for his family’s kennel but after reading so many complaints about this place and you just don’t raid a kennel for no reason. So there must have been something wrong going on there if the dogs were taken away.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

The Snohomish County Sheriff’s in Washington have arrest and charged Norman Ray Sandretzky with first degree animal cruelty for killing his girl friend’s pit bull with a hammer and drilling holes in the poor dog.

Who ever is killing the dogs up in Newbury, Vt. has killed another dog that was owned by Rene Weeks and Laramie Bobar. Their poor Siberian Husky was found some twenty miles away along with other dead dogs after Bobar received a call by someone saying they found his dog.

The Baltimore Animal Control is looking for the kids who were throwing rocks and bricks at a dog for fun. Hopefully these kids will be caught and charged for what they did to this little dog. They are looking for your help and if you have any info please call 410-396-4698

Over in Leitchfield, Ky you have another sick’o who not only robbed an animal shelter they put two cats in a room with a boxer who killed the two cats.

Why would anybody treat an animal like this, they are only looking to be your friend and give you love.

Monday, April 5, 2010

Watchdog Group: Charity Navigator Downgrades Humane Society of the United States Ranking

Richest Animal Rights Group Now Ranked Lower Than PETA

Today the nonprofit Center for Consumer Freedom (CCF) pointed to a newly downgraded rating from Charity Navigator as evidence that the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is not adequately fulfilling its stated charitable purpose. On Thursday Charity Navigator slashed the rankings for HSUS and the Humane Society International, the international arm of HSUS.

Charity Navigator now gives HSUS a lower level of trustworthiness than the notoriously radical People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The American Institute of Philanthropy also rates HSUS very critically, giving the organization a "C-minus" grade overall.

HSUS's 2008 tax filing shows that the group spent less than one percent of its collected donations on grants to hands-on pet shelters. It put five times as much into its executive pension plan during that year.

David Martosko, CCF's Director of Research and the editor of HumaneWatch.org, released the following statement on HSUS's new ranking:

Charity Navigator's downgrading of the Humane Society of the United States and its international arm sends a clear message: Animal charities can't stuff donor dollars away in pension plans, shortchange pet shelters, and expect that no one will notice.

HSUS raises tens of millions of dollars a year from Americans who believe their money is trickling down to local pet shelters. Instead, their contributions fund a bloated staff of well-paid lawyers and lobbyists, PETA-style propaganda campaigns, and a hefty executive pension plan.

For more information, visit HumaneWatch.org. To arrange an interview, please call Allison Miller at 202.463.7112.

The Center for Consumer Freedom is a nonprofit watchdog organization that informs the public about the activities of tax-exempt activist groups. It is supported by American consumers, business organizations, and foundations.

Saturday, April 3, 2010

OK who stole little Genevieve Lampert money that she was collecting to buy another vest for her local police dogs. Apparently some lowlifes has taken the canisters from two locations that she was using to raise funds for another vest she wanted to buy and even a scrap metal place called Spunder Metals Inc. has ripped her off on the money that’s due to her.

It’s sad when an honest child is trying to do good and a few people out there just wants to steal from her. I just love reading about the kids who have made it a mission to help the unfortunate dogs out there and to go out of their way to offer to help protect my buddies.

The Ferry- Fillmore District Police Officers working on a tip were able to catch two people named Ellen M. & Joshua Thomas who are bother and sister red handed with a ring setup in the home and a video camera showing dogs fighting.

Three dogs were rescued with the help from SPCA from a life of hell from these two lowlifes.

The public relations director of the SPCA Serving Erie County Gina Browning said: This investigation probably saved the lives of these dogs. I think people are surprised that this is happening in Buffalo, they think it’s happening in the bigger cities, but instead it may be happening a few blocks away. It’s sad, but it’s exciting to see another law-enforcement agency take something like this so seriously.

I must say myself that this was some great police work to be able to catch these two red handed, hopefully there will be more people added to the arrest list.

i Love Dogs, Inc., a premium canine supplements manufacturer and Internet news source, is sponsoring the first annual BlogPaws conference, a groundbreaking event that will bring more than 250 pet bloggers together.

i Love Dogs, Inc., a premium canine vitamins and lifestyle company famous for its line of diamond dog collars, is proud to be the "Chow Hound" sponsor for BlogPaws 2010.

BlogPaws, an online resource for pet bloggers, will be hosting this groundbreaking event April 9-10 at The Westin Columbus in Columbus, Ohio. The event will bring more than 250 pet bloggers together to connect and optimize their online network. In addition to i Love Dogs, sponsors include Kibbles ‘n Bits, Meow Mixx, Purina Care, PetSmart, Wellness, and Kodak.

As BlogPaws founder Yvonne DiVita put it, “Everyone is saying it wouldn’t be BlogPaws without i Love Dogs!”

The conference will feature keynote speakers Dr. Larry McDaniel of the PurinaCare Blog and Andrea Arden, star of Animal Planet’s Underdog to Wonderdog. Panels include “Building Your Blog Strategy,” “Pets & Pals Online – Leveraging Social Media,” and “Be the Change You Want to See.” In addition to the panels, attendees are invited to join other bloggers during the conference’s evening receptions where pet lovers will come together to wine, dine, and shake paws.

i Love Dogs, Inc. is thrilled to be invited as a sponsor. With a large online presence, the company is ahead of the blogosphere curve when it comes to most businesses. They boast several websites, including ILOVEDOGS.COM, FINDAVET.US, and TJ.LA, all featuring a library of blogs and news articles on a wide range of topics for pet lovers. i Love Dogs has also made a significant impact in the social media pet world with postings on its Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and MySpace accounts. In particular, its Twitter profiles (@ilovedogsinc, @findavet and @troyjunior) provide an up-to-the-minute stream of pet news and information.

All of the conference attendees will receive i Love Dogs goodies including samples of TJ’s Health Bites, the company’s new line of peanut-butter-flavored canine multivitamins fortified with decaffeinated green tea!

According to the BlogPaws website, “Blogging is about relationships; relationships with your readers, with other bloggers and for some, with your customers. BlogPaws is designed to bring together bloggers, online pet enthusiasts, pet brands and advocates for animal welfare to spark new opportunities for all of us. Relationships like these take months to build online. At BlogPaws, you’ll have the opportunity to meet many like-minded people who will become new readers, advocates, friends, sponsors and cheerleaders for your efforts across the Web.”

For more information about i Love Dogs, Inc., contact Martha Smith at ms(at)ilovedogs(dot)com or 310-539-7400.

i LOVE DOGS INC. dedicates itself to formulating the highest quality natural vitamins and supplements available on the market today. Our name says it all — i Love Dogs is committed to the health of our canine companions and the peace of mind quality products bring to their pet parents. We pride ourselves on being leaders in animal wellness and welfare. Our products seamlessly blend natural ingredients with cutting-edge technology and science. i Love Dogs is also the designer of the world’s most exclusive diamond dog collars.

Los Angeles based Labrador breeder is expecting a rare litter of Fox Red Labrador Retrievers on April 23, 2010. Bred from champion stock, this is a unique opportunity to get a Keepsake Sired Labrador on the west coast.

Susana Labradors located in Simi Valley, CA near Los Angeles is excited to announce an upcoming litter of Fox Red Labrador puppies at their accredited kennel. Expected to be born April 23, 2010 and ready to be placed in homes circa June 20th, these highly unique puppies are of champion stock and offer a rare opportunity for west coast residents to claim an extraordinary companion for their families and/or homes.

With the puppies on the way, ownership applications are being accepted now.

Boasting over a decade of experience in raising Labrador Retrievers, Susana Labradors is a California Labrador breeder expert in owning, breeding, training and raising unparalleled fox red, white, chocolate, yellow, English cream and black Labradors to pristine specifications. This particular litter of Fox Red Labs promises to be no different – a stunning representation of the kennel’s outstanding capabilities in the field of breeding fine canines.

In addition to the overall quality of the dogs that Susana Labradors is known to produce, they are further pleased to introduce this litter of not-too-common pups. For 80 years breeders have sought to lighten the coat of the typical off-white Labrador to suit public demand; however, this upcoming litter comes from a rare line that aims to increase the dark red coat in an effort to emulate Autumn leaves for a natural camouflage during the hunting season.

In the end, there are very few Fox Red Labs and for this kennel to bring a Champion Sired litter to the west coast, sired by the only Fox Red Champion ever, is truly a first.

Between their notable bloodline and upbringing in the California sun, these Labrador puppies promise to be something special and since they’re the first of their kind on the west coast, they will go quickly.

For anyone interested in owning a well-adjusted pup from a renowned kennel and champion bloodline, this upcoming litter of rare Fox Red Labs is the perfect opportunity. With years of passion and experience under their belt, Susana Labradors offer only the finest canines and this special litter is a limited-time chance to claim the perfect companion.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Guide Dogs Australia has come up with a great supporter’s idea to help show your support for the training of guide dogs.

The head of marketing and fund-raising for Guide Dogs Australia, Theresa Hoogland said: Usually with charity you have a badge or a ribbon or a soft toy, but if you're vision-impaired, of course you can't see people supporting you by wearing a badge or a ribbon. Guide Dogs Australia has worked with beauty group Kit to develop its own fragrance, which will be sold as a perfume and used in a small range of lotions. They thought it was amazing, we've had terrific feedback with people saying, 'finally, something we can get involved with.

This is a great way to show your support to help train more dogs to help the blind lead a somewhat normal life.

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